Two days and four sermons later, the Lisbon Festival of Hope with Franklin Graham ended with nearly 1,000 people indicating a decision for Christ.
Now that the Festival of Hope is done, new believers will be connected to local churches that will help them better understand the discipleship materials they received and what it means to live for Jesus Christ.
Tears of joy as this young woman makes a life-changing decision.
Franklin Graham gives a round of applause for the work done in Portugal. Nearly 400 churches united to participate in the event and help spread the word.
Young people at the Festival stayed energetic and engaged as the Gospel was presented in song and through Franklin Graham's message.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." —2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
"Standing next to you is your new best friend," Franklin Graham said with a smile to those who walked forward during the invitation to accept Christ. Festival counselors were there to talk, pray and answer any questions people had about following Christ.
Bundled up and enjoying the show from the balcony. Just about every seat in the Campo Pequeno bullring was filled for all four services over the course of the weekend.
Brazilian singer Ana Paula Valadão led the crowd in worship for both services on Sunday. Many lifted their hands and fell to their knees as she sang.
The baritones of the Hope Choir drew cheers as they sang praises from deep in their bellies.
Many participating churches involved their youth ministry in getting ready for the Festival, ensuring they were equipped to invite friends and share their faith with confidence.
It was an emotional night. Some cried; others laughed and danced. But God's presence was evident through it all.
"He knows your name. He knows everything about your life." Franklin Graham assured all who attended that they aren't forgotten and can never be too far away to receive God's love.
"By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." —John 13:35 (ESV)
The Festival of Hope with Franklin Graham is finished, but local churches will continue the work through follow up and training. Keep praying for Portugal and all who have been changed forever by this event.
